Police issue warning to public regarding two factor authentication scams

Release Date: April 27, 2023

The Kingston Police Fraud Unit has received several reports of fraudsters calling and saying they’re from the victim’s bank. The victim’s name and bank have already been compromised, likely through a phishing attack. The victim is told they will receive a two-step authentication code, and to provide it over the phone to protect their account. When the victim provides the number, the suspects access their account and wire the money overseas.

If you receive a phone call from your bank do not provide any information. Hang up and call them back using the phone number on the back of your card.

Do not click on links you receive by email or text messages. Do not ever provide a two-step authentication code to anyone else.

If you have been the victim of a fraud, report it to the Kingston Police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.